Pilot and burner system for firefighting training

ABSTRACT

A pilot and burner apparatus is provided for use in firefighting training. The apparatus includes a main fuel conduit and a main fuel valve. The apparatus includes a pilot tube and a pilot fuel conduit configured to deliver fuel from the main fuel conduit to the pilot tube. The apparatus includes main and pilot fuel valves to respectively control a flow of fuel in the main and pilot fuel conduits. In a pilot phase, the valves direct fuel to the pilot tube. An ignition component is configured to ignite fuel in the pilot tube to generate a pilot flame. In a burn phase, the pilot flame generates a controllable flame out of a main burner pipe by igniting fuel exiting the main fuel conduit. The controllable flame can be delivered to a training structure for training purposes.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Prov. App'n No.62/148,439, filed Apr. 16, 2015, entitled “Pilot and Burner System forFirefighting Training,” the entire contents of which is incorporatedherein by reference.

BACKGROUND Field

The present disclosure relates to apparatuses and systems for providingcontrolled fires for training individuals in extinguishing fires, and inparticular, apparatuses and systems that include an integrated pilot andburner system.

Description of Related Art

When training firefighters, law enforcement, port authorities, firstresponders, military and the like, an apparatus can be used to createsimulated fire conditions to permit trainees to practice firefightingtechniques. Different scenarios can be created for firefighting trainingthrough the use of such an apparatus in combination with a variety oftraining structures (e.g., fire props or burn props) and/or in a varietyof environments (e.g., within a building, in the open, on or around avehicle, etc.). The simulated fire conditions can be built and designedwith a variety of scenarios trainees will likely face in the field. Forexample, simulated scenarios can include attic fires, hidden fires indropped ceiling or cocklofts, electrical panel fires, pressurized pipeleak fires, high-rise building fires, vehicle fires, and the like. Beingable to generate a variety of scenarios can aid in the efficacy andquality of the training. In addition, being able to provide frequent andrepeatable training scenarios can increase the efficiency of thetraining process by providing multiple opportunities for trainees toface simulated fire conditions or being able to train a large number ofpeople over a short period of time.

SUMMARY

Firefighting training can teach firefighters and other emergencyresponders to be more skilled and efficient in fighting fires. Trainingcan also instruct people about the dangers of fighting fires, resultingin fewer injuries and death to the people that fight fires. Trainingfacilities can be built and maintained that provide a variety ofsituations suitable for firefighting training. These facilities can beconfigured to provide a variety of situations and scenarios to educateand train firefighters, law enforcement, port authorities, firstresponders, military, and the like. These facilities can be in a fixedlocation or they can be mobile. The efficacy of such facilities isrelated to the quality of the training scenarios as well as thefrequency with which scenarios can be utilized in training. Thesefacilities can include pilot and burner systems that are designed togenerate simulated fire conditions that are repeatable and controllable.For example, these pilot and burner devices can be used to create and todirect flames to desired locations with targeted or tailored conditions(e.g., intensity of flames) for use in training.

Downtime for maintenance, service, and/or repair of these pilot andburner apparatuses can interfere with operation of training facilities,potentially adversely affecting compliance with legal, regulatory,and/or administrative training requirements. In typical pilot and burnersystems, the pilot and burner system would have to be completely removedalong with its components from a flame device for maintenance, service,and/or repair. Such a procedure may require a field service technicianto travel to the training location and to completely disassemble thepiping and electrical infrastructure of the device on site. This maytake several hours of labor plus travel costs, making it a relativelyexpensive procedure for the training facility. Additionally, if specificparts were needed to repair the pilot and burner systems, additionalcost may be accrued for a return visit once parts were acquired.Furthermore, the capabilities of the training facility may be reducedduring the period in which the pilot and burner system is beingrepaired. In addition, typical pilot and burner systems may be customdesigned for the facilities where they are installed meaning that theyare unique to the facility and not necessarily interchangeable withother pilot and burner systems. This can increase the cost ofinstallation as well as costs for maintenance, repair, and/orreplacement.

Typical pilot and burner systems include control and fuel lines for thepilot system that are separate from control and fuel lines for theburner system. Because the fuel source and/or control systems aretypically located remotely from the pilot and burner system, this canmean that multiple fuel lines and/or electrical lines are installedbetween the fuel source and the control systems. In some installations,fire training structures or burn props are modified to accommodate theselines so that the lines are not exposed to the harsh conditions in thetraining scenarios. This can increase the complexity and cost ofinstallation of such pilot and burner systems.

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides for a pilot and burnerapparatus that is integrated into a single serviceable unit. Thedisclosed pilot and burner apparatus is configured to allow theapparatus to be removed by unplugging an electrical disconnectiondevice, disconnecting mechanical connectors, and removing a connectionwith a fuel source. The apparatus, including valves, electricalcomponents, ignition components, and pilot components, can be removedrelatively efficiently (e.g., by removing relatively few connections orfasteners, without the use of tools, in less than 10 minutes, etc.) andeither repaired locally on a table or sent back to the manufacture forrepairs. In some instances, the apparatus can be replaced by anidentical apparatus because the apparatuses are interchangeable ratherthan being custom-designed for the particular training facility. Thepilot and burner apparatus can be a single, compact apparatus thatincorporates a pilot system and a burner system with associatedcontrols. The pilot and burner apparatus can be a compact apparatus,fitting within an envelope of about 18 inches by about 12 inches byabout 10 inches, an envelope of less than or equal to about 18 inchescubed (18 in. by 18 in. by 18 in.), an envelope of less than or equal toabout 20 inches cubed, an envelope of less than or equal to about 22inches cubed, an envelope at least about 10 inches cubed and/or lessthan or equal to about 24 inches cubed, or an envelope at least about 12inches cubed and/or less than or equal to about 18 inches cubed. Thepilot and burner apparatus can be configured to be installed and removedby an individual. This can be due at least in part to the compactenvelope of the apparatus as well as the weight of the apparatus (e.g.,at least 25 pounds and/or less than or equal to about 50 pounds, atleast about 30 pounds and/or less than or equal to about 45 pounds, orat least about 35 pounds and/or less than or equal to about 40 pounds).

The disclosed apparatus can reduce the cost of repairs for a trainingfacility by reducing travel cost associated with repairs of theapparatus as well as costs for disassembling and reassembling theapparatus. The disclosed apparatus may also allow for the trainingfacility to have an inventory of compatible apparatuses in stock thatallow for an efficient exchange of components, allowing a unit to besent off for maintenance while installing the interchangeable unit inthe facility. This can reduce downtime of the training facility ortraining structure. The disclosed apparatus can also reduce the time andcost associated with manufacturing pilot and burner apparatuses fortraining facilities due at least in part to their interchangeability.

In addition, the present disclosure provides for an integrated pilot andburner apparatus that utilizes a single fuel line to provide fuel toboth the pilot system and the burner system. The disclosed pilot andburner apparatus can be controlled using a local or remote burn controlsystem that can operate the apparatus in a pilot phase to generate apilot flame, and in a burn phase to provide a controlled flame to atraining structure. This design can reduce the complexity and costassociated with operation, installation, maintenance, and repair of thepilot and burner apparatus. The integrated pilot and burner apparatuscan be a single, compact apparatus that is easily installed and/orremoved in intended structures or facilities.

The systems, methods and devices described herein have innovativeaspects, no single one of which is indispensable or solely responsiblefor their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of theclaims, some of the advantageous features will now be summarized.

In a first aspect, a pilot and burner apparatus is provided for use infirefighting training. The apparatus includes a main fuel conduitcomprising a main fuel inlet and a main fuel outlet, said main fuelconduit having a pilot fuel opening in fluid communication with a pilotfuel conduit. The apparatus also includes a main fuel valve coupled tothe main fuel conduit and configured to control a flow of fuel in themain fuel conduit between the main fuel inlet and the main fuel outlet.The apparatus also includes a pilot flame tube comprising a pilot outletand an air inlet, said pilot flame tube having a pilot fuel opening influid communication with said pilot fuel conduit. The apparatus alsoincludes a pilot flame fan coupled to the pilot flame tube at the airinlet of the pilot flame tube so that, in use, the pilot flame fandelivers a flow of air into the pilot flame tube through the air inlet.The pilot fuel conduit includes a pilot fuel inlet fluidly coupled tothe pilot fuel opening of the main fuel conduit so that, in use, atleast a portion of the flow of fuel in the main fuel conduit is directedinto the pilot fuel conduit; and a pilot fuel outlet fluidly coupled tothe pilot fuel opening of the pilot flame tube so that, in use, at leasta portion of a flow of fuel in the pilot fuel conduit is directed intothe pilot flame tube. The apparatus also includes a pilot fuel valvecoupled to the pilot fuel conduit and positioned between the pilot fuelinlet and the pilot fuel outlet, the pilot fuel valve configured tocontrol the flow of fuel in the pilot fuel conduit between the pilotfuel inlet and the pilot fuel outlet. The apparatus also includes anignition component mechanically coupled to the pilot flame tube so that,in use, the ignition component ignites fuel in the pilot tube. Theapparatus also includes a flame detection component mechanically coupledto the pilot flame tube so that, in use, the flame detection systemgenerates electronic measurements corresponding to flame conditionswithin the pilot flame tube.

In some embodiments of the first aspect, the apparatus further includesa pilot regulator coupled to the pilot fuel conduit, the pilot regulatorconfigured to regulate a fuel pressure in the pilot fuel conduit. Insome embodiments of the first aspect, all of the components of the pilotand burner apparatus are configured to fit within an envelope of about18 inches by about 12 inches by about 10 inches. In some embodiments ofthe first aspect, the apparatus further includes a secondary main fuelvalve positioned between the main fuel valve and the main fuel outlet.In some embodiments of the first aspect, the apparatus further includesa secondary pilot fuel valve positioned between the pilot fuel valve andthe pilot fuel outlet.

In some embodiments of the first aspect, the ignition component includesan ignition coil and a flame igniter, wherein the ignition coil iselectrically coupled to the flame igniter, and wherein the flame igniteris mechanically coupled to the pilot flame tube so that, in use, theflame igniter receives electric current from the ignition coil andgenerates a spark to ignite fuel in the pilot flame tube.

In some embodiments of the first aspect, the flame detection componentcomprises an optical sensor configured to generate electrical signalscorresponding to levels of electromagnetic radiation within the pilotflame tube. In a further embodiment of the first aspect, the opticalsensor comprises an ultraviolet sensor configured to generate electricalsignals corresponding to levels of ultraviolet radiation within thepilot flame tube.

In some embodiments of the first aspect, the apparatus further includesa support structure configured to couple to one or more of the pilotflame tube, the main fuel conduit, and the pilot fuel conduit. In afurther embodiment of the first aspect, the support structure comprisesmounting interface elements configured to securely mount the pilot andburner apparatus to a training structure without the use of tools. Inanother further embodiment of the first aspect, the apparatus includesan electrical enclosure coupled to the support structure. In a furtherembodiment, the ignition component comprises an ignition coilelectrically coupled to a flame igniter, the ignition componentpositioned within the electrical enclosure.

In a second aspect, a firefighting training system is provided thatincludes a pilot and burner apparatus having a support structure, a mainfuel conduit supported by the support structure, the main fuel conduitcomprising a main fuel inlet and a main fuel outlet. The apparatus alsoincludes a main fuel valve coupled to the main fuel conduit, the mainfuel valve configured to control a flow of fuel in the main fuelconduit, a pilot flame tube supported by the support structure, thepilot flame tube comprising an air inlet and a pilot flame tube outlet.The apparatus also includes a pilot fuel conduit comprising a pilot fuelinlet fluidly coupled to an opening of the main fuel conduit and a pilotfuel outlet fluidly coupled to the pilot flame tube. The apparatus alsoincludes a pilot fuel valve coupled to the pilot fuel conduit, the pilotfuel valve configured to control a flow of fuel in the pilot fuelconduit. The apparatus also includes an ignition component coupled tothe pilot flame tube. The apparatus also includes a flame detectioncomponent coupled to the pilot flame tube. The system also includes afuel source fluidly coupled to the main fuel conduit of the pilot andburner apparatus to provide a flow of fuel in the main fuel conduit anda flame control system electrically coupled to the pilot and burnerapparatus. In a pilot phase, the flame control system is configured tocontrol the pilot and burner apparatus to close the main fuel valve toinhibit the flow of fuel out of the main fuel outlet; open the pilotfuel valve so that at least a portion of the flow of fuel in the mainfuel conduit passes through the pilot fuel conduit and enters the pilottube through the pilot outlet interface; generate a spark within thepilot tube with the ignition component to ignite fuel in the pilot tubeto generate a pilot flame; receive measurements from the flame detectioncomponent; and determine that the pilot flame has ignited based on thereceived measurements. In a burn phase, the flame control system isconfigured to control the pilot and burner apparatus to open the mainfuel valve so that at least a portion of the flow of fuel from the fuelsource exits the main fuel conduit through the main fuel outlet.

In some embodiments of the second aspect, the fuel source is configuredto deliver at least one of propane, butane, or natural gas to the pilotand burner apparatus. In some embodiments of the second aspect, thesystem further includes a main burner pipe coupled to the pilot flametube, the main burner pipe configured to direct a pilot flame from thepilot and burner apparatus to a targeted location within thefirefighting training system. In a further embodiment, in the burnphase, fuel exiting the main fuel outlet is directed to the targetedlocation using a fuel pipe coupled to the main fuel outlet; the pilotflame in the pilot tube is directed to an end of the main burner pipe atthe targeted location using an air distribution system coupled to thepilot flame tube; and a flame ignites when the fuel from the fuel pipeis ignited by the pilot flame leaving the main burner pipe.

In some embodiments of the second aspect, the system also includes afuel source pressure regulator configured to regulate a fuel pressurefrom the fuel source. In a further embodiment, the pilot and burnerapparatus further comprises a pilot regulator coupled to the pilot fuelconduit, the pilot regulator configured to regulate a fuel pressure inthe pilot fuel conduit.

In some embodiments of the second aspect, the flame control system isintegrated into the pilot and burner apparatus. In a further embodiment,the pilot and burner apparatus further comprises an electrical enclosurecoupled to the support structure and the flame control system ispositioned within the electrical enclosure.

In some embodiments of the second aspect, the pilot and burner apparatusfurther comprises a wireless communication module. In a furtherembodiment, the flame control system is configured to wirelesslycommunicate with the pilot and burner apparatus through the wirelesscommunication module.

In a third aspect, a pilot and burner apparatus is provided thatincludes a support structure. The apparatus also includes a main fuelconduit coupled to the support structure, the main fuel conduitcomprising a main fuel inlet, a main fuel outlet, and a pilot conduitconnection. The apparatus also includes a main fuel valve coupled to themain fuel conduit, the main fuel valve configured to control a flow offuel in the main fuel conduit. The apparatus also includes a pilot flametube coupled to the support structure, the pilot tube comprising an airinlet, a pilot outlet connection and a pilot flame tube outlet. Theapparatus also includes a pilot fuel conduit comprising a pilot fuelinlet fluidly coupled to the pilot conduit connection of the main fuelconduit and a pilot fuel outlet fluidly coupled to the pilot outletconnection of the pilot flame tube. The apparatus also includes a pilotfuel valve coupled to the pilot fuel conduit, the pilot fuel valveconfigured to control a flow of fuel in the pilot fuel conduit. Theapparatus also includes an ignition component coupled to the pilot flametube. The apparatus also includes a flame detection component coupled tothe pilot flame tube.

In a fourth aspect, a firefighting training apparatus is provided thatincludes the pilot and burner apparatus of the third aspect. Theapparatus also includes a training structure and a fuel pipe fluidlycoupled to the main fuel outlet of the pilot and burner apparatus. Theapparatus also includes a main burner pipe comprising a pilot flameinlet and a pilot flame outlet, the main burner pipe coupled to thetraining structure. The main burner pipe is configured to direct a pilotflame from the pilot flame tube to a targeted location within thefirefighting training apparatus. The fuel pipe is configured to conveyfuel to the targeted location within the firefighting trainingapparatus. The pilot and burner apparatus is configured to control aflow of fuel within the fuel pipe. The main burner pipe and the fuelpipe are configured to generate a flame at the targeted location in thetraining structure to simulate the training structure being on fire.

In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, the training structure isshaped like a car. In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, thetraining structure comprises a wall, a ceiling, and a flame outlet todirect the flame delivered from the main burner pipe along a ceiling ofthe training structure. In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, thepilot and burner apparatus is positioned within the training structure.In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, the pilot and burner apparatusis positioned outside of the training structure. In a furtherembodiment, the pilot and burner apparatus is positioned at least 10feet from the training structure.

In a fifth aspect, a firefighting training apparatus having a pluralityof burn zones is provided. The apparatus includes a training structurecomprising the plurality of burn zones. The apparatus also includes acorresponding pilot and burner apparatus for each of the plurality ofburn zones, each of the corresponding pilot and burner apparatusesaccording to the pilot and burner apparatus of the third aspect. Theapparatus also includes a corresponding fuel pipe fluidly coupled to amain fuel outlet of a respective pilot and burner apparatus. Theapparatus also includes a corresponding main burner pipe comprising apilot flame inlet and a pilot flame outlet, the pilot flame inletcoupled with a pilot flame tube of a respective pilot and burnerapparatus. For individual burn zones the main burner pipe is configuredto direct a pilot flame from the pilot flame tube to the respective burnzone, the fuel pipe is configured to convey fuel to the respective burnzone, the respective pilot and burner apparatus is configured to controla flow of fuel within the fuel pipe, and the main burner pipe and thefuel pipe are configured to generate a flame at the respective burn zonein the training structure to simulate the burn zone being on fire.

In a sixth aspect, a fire training prop comprising non-flammablematerials is provided. The prop includes at least two simulated firelocations. For individual simulated fire locations, the prop includes adedicated compact pilot and burner apparatus positioned remotely fromthe simulated fire location. Individual compact pilot and burnerapparatuses are configured to include valves to control a flow of fuelto the simulated fire location as well as to provide a pilot flame tothe simulated fire location. Individual compact pilot and burnerapparatuses have physical dimensions that fit within an envelope ofabout 18 inches by 12 inches by 10 inches.

In some embodiments of the sixth aspect, individual compact pilot andburner apparatuses are interchangeable with one another. In someembodiments of the sixth aspect, individual compact pilot and burnerapparatuses are removable from the fire training prop. In a furtherembodiment, removing a pilot and burner apparatus comprises disengaginga mechanical fastener, disconnecting an electrical cable, disconnectinga fuel source, and disconnecting a fuel outlet conduit.

In a seventh aspect, a compact pilot and burner apparatus is providedthat includes a main fuel system configured to control a flow of fuelwithin the pilot and burner apparatus. The apparatus also includes apilot fuel system fluidly coupled to the main fuel system and configuredto control a flow of fuel within the pilot fuel system. The apparatusalso includes a pilot flame system fluidly coupled to the pilot fuelsystem, the pilot flame system configured to generate a pilot flameusing the flow of fuel within the pilot fuel system. The apparatus alsoincludes an electrical control system configured to transmit electricalsignals to the main fuel system, the pilot fuel system, and the pilotflame system. The apparatus also includes a support structure configuredto directly or indirectly provide mechanical support for the main fuelsystem, the pilot fuel system, the pilot flame system, and theelectrical control system. The compact pilot and burner apparatus fitswithin a physical envelope of about 18 inches by 12 inches by 10 inches.

In some embodiments of the seventh aspect, the apparatus weighs at leastabout 25 pounds and less than or equal to about 50 pounds. In someembodiments of the seventh aspect, the apparatus is configured to beremoved from a training structure by disconnecting a single electroniccontroller plug, disengaging two mechanical fasteners, and disconnectingtwo gas conduits. In some embodiments of the seventh aspect, theapparatus can be installed and/or removed in a training structure by oneindividual.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Throughout the drawings, reference numbers may be reused to indicategeneral correspondence between reference elements. The drawings areprovided to illustrate example embodiments described herein and are notintended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate various views of an example pilot and burnerapparatus.

FIG. 2 illustrates a functional block diagram of an example pilot andburner system.

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate a functional block diagram showing operationalphases of the example pilot and burner system illustrated in FIG. 2A.

FIGS. 4A-4E illustrate various views of another example pilot and burnerapparatus.

FIG. 4F illustrates an exploded view of components of the example pilotand burner apparatus illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4E.

FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate various views of another example pilot and burnerapparatus as installed in a training structure.

FIG. 5C illustrates a main fuel conduit of the example pilot and burnerapparatus illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5B.

FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate various views of infrastructure for an examplefire training prop with four pilot and burner apparatuses configured toprovide fire to four regions of the prop.

FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric view of a fire training prop configuredto resemble a car, the fire training prop incorporating theinfrastructure illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6B.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example pilot and burner apparatus incorporatedinto fire training system, the example pilot and burner apparatusconfigured to provide fire to a burn prop and to a flashover prop.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example pilot and burner apparatus incorporatedinto a burn prop.

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate an example pilot and burner apparatus withfeatures that facilitate installation and removal of the apparatus in atraining structure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a flow chart of an example method for removing apilot and burner apparatus from a training structure.

FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate the combined main fuel system, the pilotfuel system, and the ignition system of an example pilot and burnerapparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Certain embodiments and examples of pilot and burner apparatuses forgenerating repeatable and/or controllable flames for use in firefightingtraining are described herein. Those of skill in the art will appreciatethat the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosedembodiments and/or uses and obvious modifications and equivalentsthereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the disclosure not belimited by any particular embodiments described herein. For example, inany method or process disclosed herein, the acts or operations of themethod or process can be performed in any suitable sequence and are notnecessarily limited to any particular disclosed sequence. Variousoperations can be described as multiple discrete operations in turn, ina manner that can be helpful in understanding certain embodiments;however, the order of description should not be construed to imply thatthese operations are order dependent. Additionally, the structuresdescribed herein can be embodied as integrated components or as separatecomponents.

For purposes of comparing various embodiments, certain aspects andadvantages of these embodiments are described. Not necessarily all suchaspects or advantages are achieved by any particular embodiment. Thus,for example, various embodiments can be carried out in a manner thatachieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taughtherein without necessarily achieving other aspects or advantages as canalso be taught or suggested herein. It is contemplated that theparticular features, structures, or characteristics of any embodimentsdiscussed herein can be combined in any suitable manner in one or moreseparate embodiments not expressly illustrated or described. In manycases, structures that are described or illustrated as unitary orcontiguous can be separated while still performing the function(s) ofthe unitary structure. In many instances, structures that are describedor illustrated as separate can be joined or combined while stillperforming the function(s) of the separated structures.

The pilot and burner apparatuses and systems described herein can beutilized to create customized firefighting training scenarios. Suchtraining scenarios can include, in some embodiments, at least twosimulated flame locations in a structure or prop wherein control of theflames for each location can be supplied through an individual pilot andburner apparatus. The individual pilot and burner apparatuses can belocated remotely from the simulated flame locations, delivering thepilot flame and fuel for the burners through dedicated conduits. Forexample, a plurality of pilot and burner apparatuses can be used togenerate separately controlled fire zones, interior fire trainingsimulations, fires with expansion capabilities to multiple fire points,and/or changeable facility configurations. The apparatuses can be usedto control fire characteristics, allowing a training facility tocustomize, tailor, design, and/or control the training experience. Theapparatuses can be used in conjunction with fire training propsincluding, for example and without limitation, kitchens/stove tops,beds, sofas, desks, hallways, rooms, rollovers (e.g., when fire gases inan enclosed area ignite), flashovers (e.g., ignition), vehicles,gas/fuel tanks, dumpsters, barbecues, gas lines/meters, dip tanks, andthe like. In some embodiments, a plurality of apparatuses can beconfigured to deliver independently controlled burn zones, each of whichhas its own independent pilot and burner apparatus. For example, tosimulate a vehicle fire, the apparatuses can be configured to provide asingle fire evolution scenario where a fire progresses from an enginearea, to a passenger area, to a wheel-brake area, and/or a fuel spillarea. The apparatuses can be controlled from a burn control system toprovide a scenario where the fire spreads in the vehicle or a scenariowhere trainees deal with a fully involved fire.

In some embodiments, a fire training prop can be made at least partiallyof non-flammable materials and can include at least two simulated flamelocations. Control of the flames for each location can be providedthrough a single, compact combined controller and flame generatorlocated remote from the flame location. The compact controller and flamegenerator can include electronically controllable valves for the fuel tosupply fuel for the simulated flame locations combined with anelectronically controllable pilot tube with a pilot ignition system.

The pilot and burner apparatus can be configured as a single,integrated, compact unit, wherein all components of the apparatus arewithin close proximity to one another. For example, some embodiments ofthe pilot and burner apparatus can fit within an envelope havingdimensions of between about 14 inches by 9 inches by 8 inches and about22 inches by 15 inches by 13 inches. The single, integrated, compactunit can be configured to be installed and removed relatively easily.For example, the unit can be removed from a burn prop by disconnectingan electrical plug, unscrewing two bolts, and disconnecting two gasconduits, allowing the unit to be physically removed from the prop by asingle person. As another example, the apparatus can be configured to beinstalled and removed without the use of tools (e.g., fasteners can befastened by hand to sufficiently secure the apparatus in place). Theapparatus can have a size and weight configured so that a single personcan install and/or remove the unit. The pilot and burner apparatus canbe limited to an electrical box configured to route electrical signalsto electrical components with associated electrical cables andconnectors; a main fuel system that includes one or more main fuelvalves; a pilot fuel system that includes one or more pilot fuel valvesand possibly a gauge; a pilot flame system that includes a pilot tube, ablower, an ignition system, and a flame detection system; and a supportstructure to mechanically support the components of the pilot and burnerapparatus.

The pilot and burner apparatus can utilize gas as a source for producingfire. For example, propane, butane, and/or natural gas can be used toproduce fires that generate heat and smoke for a training experiencethat models real life conditions. Gas-based fires can also be used tosimulate a variety of fire behaviors. The pilot and burner apparatus canbe used to provide a variety of training evolutions that may be repeatedto allow all trainees to get hands-on firefighting experience withrelatively little downtime. The pilot and burner apparatus can beconfigured to allow an operator, such as an instructor, to start andstop flames during training, to begin a new training session, orevolution, as desired, and/or to modify properties of the fire duringtraining to adapt the training. The pilot and burner apparatus caninclude an integrated pilot system that operates using the fuel from themain fuel source to provide reliable ignition of a flame. The pilot andburner apparatus can also include a blower or forced air system to aidin the reliability of flame ignition and/or to provide a flame at adistance from the pilot and burner apparatus. The pilot and burnerapparatus can include a main fuel conduit that selectively controls theflow of fuel through the apparatus wherein fuel can be directed to thepilot system for igniting and sustaining a pilot flame and/or fuel canbe directed through the main fuel conduit to a fuel conduit for a prop,the pilot and burner apparatus configured thereby to control fueldelivered to the prop.

Example Pilot and Burner Apparatus

FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate various views of an example pilot and burnerapparatus 100. The pilot and burner apparatus 100 includes a main fuelsystem 110, a pilot fuel system 120, a pilot flame system 130,electrical components 140, and structural components 150. The pilot andburner apparatus 100 is configured to receive fuel from a fuel sourceand to selectively control the flow of the fuel to provide fuel withinthe main fuel system 110, the pilot fuel system 120, and/or the pilotflame system 130. In some embodiments, the fuel source can provide fuelat a single input point at the apparatus 100 (e.g., at the main fuelsystem 110), wherein the fuel is used to both light a pilot flame and toprovide fuel for a flame at a burn prop, the fuel therefore controlledby the apparatus 100 to ignite and to maintain a pilot flame and togenerate and control a flame at a training structure (e.g., a burn prop,a room, etc.).

The pilot and burner apparatus 100 includes a main fuel system 110. Themain fuel system 110 includes a main fuel conduit 111 comprising one ormore fluidly coupled segments, a main fuel inlet 112, a pilot conduitinterface 114, one or more main fuel valves 116 a, 116 b, and a mainfuel outlet 118. The main fuel system 110 forms a sealed conduit forfuel, controlling the flow of fuel in the main fuel conduit 111 from themain fuel inlet 112 to the main fuel outlet 118 and/or the pilot conduitinterface 114. The main fuel conduit 111 can comprise hoses, pipes,connectors, or the like. The main fuel conduit 111 can be fluidlyconnected to the main fuel inlet 112, the pilot conduit interface 114,and the main fuel outlet 118. The main fuel conduit 111 can beconfigured to fluidly connect the fuel source to the pilot fuel system120 and a fuel conduit configured to deliver fuel to a burn prop (notshown).

In use, fuel (e.g., a gas such as propane, butane, natural gas, etc.)enters the main fuel system 110 through the main fuel inlet 112. Themain fuel valves 116 a, 116 b coupled to the main fuel conduit 111control the flow of gas through the main fuel conduit 111 and/or to apilot fuel conduit 121 through the pilot conduit connection 114. Themain fuel valves 116 a, 116 b can be, for example and withoutlimitation, a solenoid-operated shutoff valve, a motor valve, apneumatic valve, a hydraulic valve, etc. The main fuel valves 116 a, 116b can comprise a primary main valve 116 a and a secondary main valve 116b. In some embodiments, the pilot and burner system 100 does not includethe secondary main valve 116 b. The main fuel system 110 includes a mainfuel outlet 118 configured to deliver fuel to a fuel pipe of a trainingstructure (not shown). In use, the fuel from the main fuel system 110can be delivered to the fuel pipe of the training structure to control aflame at the training structure. The flame can be generated by combiningthe fuel from the main fuel system 110 with a pilot flame generated bythe pilot combustion system 130, the pilot combustion system 130receiving fuel from the pilot fuel system 120. In certainimplementations, the flame at the training structure can be remote fromthe pilot and burner apparatus 100, the fuel delivered from theapparatus 100 to the flame location through the fuel pipe of thetraining structure and the pilot flame being delivered from theapparatus 100 to the flame location through a main burner pipe.

The main fuel inlet 112 interconnects a fuel source (not shown) to themain fuel system 110. The fuel source includes but is not limited totanks, cylinders, drums and combinations thereof containing an ignitablegas or liquid fuel such as ethane, propane, butane, pentane, hexane,gasoline, diesel, and combinations thereof. The fuel source can includeone or more pressure regulators. The pressure regulators at the fuelsource can be used to control the fuel pressure within the main fuelsystem 110. The fuel source can be attached to the main fuel inlet 112via quick connectors, hose, rubber tubing, metal piping, and the like.The main fuel conduit 111 can include connection pipes, pipe adapters,nipples, joints, and the like which fit together to allow fuel to flowfrom a fuel source through the main fuel system 110, to the pilot fuelsystem 120, and/or to fuel pipe of a training structure (not shown).

The pilot and burner apparatus 100 includes pilot fuel system 120configured to deliver fuel from the main fuel system 110 to the pilotflame system 130. The pilot fuel system 120 includes a pilot fuelconduit 121 comprising one or more fluidly coupled segments, a pilotfuel inlet 122, a pilot fuel regulator 124 with a gauge 125, and one ormore pilot fuel valves 126 a, 126 b. The pilot fuel system 120 forms asealed conduit for fuel, controlling the flow of fuel in the pilot fuelconduit 121 from the pilot conduit connection 114 to a pilot tubeconnection 136 on a pilot tube 131. The pilot fuel conduit 121 cancomprise hoses, pipes, or the like. The pilot fuel conduit 121 can befluidly connected to the pilot conduit connection 114 and the pilot tubeconnection 136. The pilot fuel conduit 121 can be configured to deliverfuel to the pilot flame system 130 for igniting and maintaining a pilotflame.

The pilot fuel regulator 124 can be fluidly connected to the pilot fuelconduit 121. The pilot fuel regulator 124 can be configured to regulatethe pressure of fuel within the pilot fuel system 120, the fuel beingprovided from the main fuel system 110 at the pilot conduit connection114. The pilot fuel regulator 124 may be of any suitable type and mayinclude an adjustment bladder or diaphragm. The pilot fuel regulator 124may include a gauge 125 to provide information regarding the fuelpressure provided by the pilot fuel regulator 124 for testing andverification purposes during maintenance and/or use of the pilot andburner apparatus 100. The pilot fuel regulator 124 can be used toregulate the pressure of fuel within the pilot fuel system 120, and thepressure of the fuel within the main fuel system 110 can be regulated byone or more regulators at the fuel source.

The pilot and burner apparatus 100 includes a pilot flame system 130configured to generate a pilot flame that can be used to ignite a flowof fuel. The pilot flame system 130 includes an ignition systemcomprising an ignition device 138. The ignition device 138 is coupled toa pilot flame tube 131 to ignite fuel within the pilot flame tube 131 toproduce a flame, e.g., a controlled live fire that emanates from thepilot flame tube 131. The ignition device 138 can be a manual ignitiondevice or an automatic ignition device. The ignition device 138 can be aflame igniter, such as a spark plug or other electrical device thatgenerates a spark when energized with electrical current such as a sparkigniter. The ignition device 138 can be electrically coupled to anignition coil (not shown). The ignition coil, in some embodiments, canbe positioned within the electrical enclosure 140.

The pilot flame system 130 includes an air distribution system 132. Theair distribution system 132 can include a pilot combustion fan. Thepilot combustion fan can include a variable speed drive and a blowerthat can be used to vary the airflow through the air distribution system132. The pilot combustion fan can receive air from ambient air. Incertain implementations, the air distribution system 132 can beconfigured to generate sufficient air flow to provide flames out of theend of a 15-foot main burner pipe that has a 3-inch diameter.

The pilot flame system 130 includes a pilot system positioned within thepilot flame tube 131 that is operable to generate a pilot flame byexposing fuel received at the pilot tube connection 136 of the pilotflame tube 131 to the ignition device 138.

The pilot flame system 130 includes a flame detection system 134. Theflame detection system 134 can be coupled to the pilot flame tube 131 sothat the flame detection system 134 is positioned to detect propertieswithin the pilot flame tube 131. In some embodiments, the flamedetection system 134 is positioned within the enclosure of the pilotflame tube 131. For example, the flame detection system 134 can includea sensor housing that protrudes into the pilot flame tube 131 so thatthe pilot flame will be in a detection range of a sensor (e.g., a fieldof view of an optical sensor) positioned in the sensor housing. Incertain embodiments, the flame detection system 134 is positioned sothat a field of view or area of detection of the flame detection system134 includes a portion of the interior of the pilot flame tube 131, butthe flame detection system 134 is positioned so that it is not withinthe pilot flame tube 131. For example, where the flame detection system134 includes an optical sensor, the optical sensor can be positioned sothat it is not within the pilot flame tube 131 but a field of view ofthe optical sensor includes the interior of the pilot flame tube 131through an opening in the side of the pilot flame tube 131. The flamedetection system 134 can include an optical sensor configured togenerate electrical signals corresponding to levels of electromagneticradiation within a field of view of the optical sensor. In someembodiments, the optical sensor is configured to be sensitive toelectromagnetic radiation in the ultraviolet portion of theelectromagnetic spectrum. When a flame is present, the flame detectionsystem 134 can produce signals indicative of the presence of a flame. Inthe absence of a flame, the flame detection system 134 can producesignals indicative of the absence of a flame.

In use, fuel can be introduced into the pilot flame tube 131 via thepilot tube connection 136 where it is ignited, using the ignition device138 that can provide a spark within the pilot flame tube 131 ignitingthe fuel. Once ignited, the pilot flame can be monitored by the flamedetection system 134. In some embodiments, the pilot and burnerapparatus 100 can include a pilot system positioned within the pilotflame tube 131.

The pilot and burner apparatus 100 includes electrical components 140configured to electrically couple various components to a centralizedlocation for distribution to a flame control system, such as the flamecontrol system described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2B. The electricalcomponents 140 include a physical enclosure for protecting theelectrical connections. The electrical components 140 includeconnections 142 to provide a means for electrical cables to pass fromwithin the enclosure to electrical components of the pilot and burnerapparatus 100. In some embodiments, the connections 142 are plugs intowhich female or male ends of electrical connectors couple. In certainembodiments, the connections 142 are physical pass-through elements thatprovide a path for electrical cables to pass from without the enclosureto within the enclosure. The electrical components 140 can electricallycouple to the main fuel valves 116 a, 116 b, the pilot fuel valves 126a, 126 b, the pilot fuel regulator 124, the flame detection system 134,the igniter device 138, the pilot flame fan 132, and/or other electricalcomponents.

The pilot and burner apparatus 100 includes structural components 150configured to support various components of the pilot and burnerapparatus 100. In some embodiments, the structural components 150 areconfigured to securely mount, latch, and/or fasten to a trainingstructure and/or a mounting plate within the training structure. Thestructural components 150 can include flanges, hooks, or other physicalfeatures that mate with corresponding elements on the mounting plate ortraining structure to be able to securely attach the pilot and burnerapparatus 100 without the need for tools. In certain implementations,the pilot and burner apparatus 100 can be removed and/or installedwithout the use of tools in less than or equal to about 10 minutes, inless than or equal to about 5 minutes, or in less than or equal to about2 minutes. In some embodiments, additional components can be used tosecure the structural components 150 to the mounting plate includingscrews, T-handles, washers, nuts, bolts, latches, springs, locks, clips,and the like. In some embodiments, tools can be used to secure the pilotand burner apparatus 100 to the mounting plate or the trainingstructure. The electrical enclosure 140 can be coupled to the structuralcomponents 150.

In certain implementations, the structural components 150 can beconfigured to latch or otherwise securely fasten to a mounting structure(e.g., within a training structure) without the use of tools to allowinstallation and/or removal of the pilot and burner apparatus 100 in arelatively little amount of time (e.g., in less than about 10 minutes,in less than about 5 minutes, or in less than about 2 minutes). Forexample, the structural components 150 can include openings shaped tomate with corresponding features on a mounting bracket (not shown) in atraining structure (e.g., a fire prop) so that the mounting structurecan be placed on the corresponding features and slid into place. In someimplementations, after sliding the pilot and burner apparatus 100 intoplace, one or more securing mechanisms can be employed to secure thestructural components 150 in place, examples of which are described ingreater detail with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B. For example, the oneor more securing mechanisms can include, without limitation, T-handles,clamps, clips, latch clamps, wingnuts, hand-tightened screws,hand-tightened nuts and bolts, a combination of these, or the like. Theconfiguration of the structural components and the securing mechanismscan make it relatively efficient and easy to install and/or remove thepilot and burner apparatus 100 relative to an apparatus that is mountedusing more permanent means (e.g., welding, gluing, etc.) or an apparatusthat is mounted using methods that require the use of tools (e.g.,screws and screwdrivers, bolts and wrenches, etc.). In some embodiments,the mechanical structure 150 includes two or more T-handles used tosecure the pilot and burner apparatus 100 to a fire training structure.The mechanical structure 150 can include tool-less bolts (e.g., boltsthat can be installed and removed without the use of tools) to attachand secure the pilot and burner apparatus 100 within a structure or at adesired location.

The mechanical structure 150 can be configured to position and securethe components of the pilot and burner apparatus 100 within closeproximity of one another. For example, the components of the pilot andburner apparatus can fit within an envelope that forms a cube with sidesbetween about 10 inches and about 23 inches (e.g., the envelop can beabout 18 inches long by about 12 inches wide by about 10 inches high).

The pilot and burner apparatus 100 provides a number of advantages overother similar systems. For example, the pilot and burner apparatus 100can operate using a single fuel line in, the fuel being distributed tothe main fuel system 110 and the pilot fuel system 120. The pilot andburner apparatus 100 integrates a pilot system with a burner system sothat the pilot flame is generated using the same apparatus that controlsthe flame for a training structure. This can be advantageous to allowquick evolutions and/or repetitions of fire training drills. The pilotand burner apparatus 100 can be configured to be installed and/orremoved relatively easily. The pilot and burner apparatus 100 can havestandardized input and output for the fuel line and the flame, allowingfor a manufacturer to produce multiple apparatuses for multipleapplications rather than producing custom-designed pilot modules and/orburner systems for custom installations. This can also allow a customersuch as a training facility to have spare units in case an apparatus isin need of service or repair. The pilot and burner apparatus 100 can becompact. This can advantageously allow installation in a variety of burnprops or training structures. This can also advantageously allow forrelatively easy installation and/or removal.

Example Pilot and Burner System

FIG. 2 illustrates a functional block diagram of an example pilot andburner system 202 including a pilot and burner apparatus 200 and a flamecontrol system 260. The pilot and burner apparatus 200 can be similar toany of the pilot and burner apparatuses described herein with referenceto FIGS. 1, 4, and 5. The pilot and burner apparatus 200 can beconfigured to be communicably coupled to the flame control system 260.The flame control system 260 can be configured to control components ofthe pilot and burner apparatus 200 to light a pilot flame, to controlthe flow of fuel to a burn prop through fuel pipe 284, to control thepilot flame delivered through a main burner pipe 282, and/or to controlattributes of the fire produced by the pilot and burner apparatus 200.Attributes of the fire produced can include, but are not limited to,flame shape, flame height, flame volume, burn rate, visual effects, andcombinations thereof. In some implementations, the attributes of thefire produced by the pilot and burner apparatus 200 can be controlledindependent of the flame control system 260 or in conjunction with theflame control system 260 using mechanical, electrical, andelectromechanical devices such as fans, flaps, louvers, dampers, and thelike incorporated into training structures.

In some embodiments, the flame control system 260 provides a humanmachine interface configured to provide training personnel or otheroperators the ability to control the generation, cessation, and/orcharacteristics of the training fires. The human machine interface caninclude displays that have multifunction windows and a menu-driveninterface with the ability to control one or more pilot and burnerapparatuses 200. The pilot and burner apparatuses 200 can be included insystems configured to provide smoke distribution, compliance safetytraining, flame spread capabilities, fire extension capabilities,flashover capabilities, wireless control, data logging, run counters andtimers, and the like. The pilot and burner system 202 can be configuredfor remote access and/or management. This can include real-time dataobservation of operational components on the pilot and burner apparatus200, and the capability to maintain operational firmware and/or softwarefrom a remote location. The pilot and burner system 202 can includeprogrammable logic circuit status reporting, computer maintenancediagnostic, remote recording and viewing of data, wireless networkintegration, remote software downloading, service data uploading,progressive run timers and counters, trends and archives, alarm history,configuration access, and the like.

The flame control system 260 can be configured to be communicablycoupled to the pilot and burner apparatus 200 through cables, throughwireless communication devices, or through a combination of wired andwireless communication devices or configurations. An electricalconnector 241 can be included to communicably couple the flame controlsystem 260 to the electrical enclosure 240. The electrical enclosure 240can provide support and protection for electrical components of thepilot and burner apparatus 200. In certain implementations, theelectrical enclosure 240 includes a wireless communication moduleconfigured to communicate with a remote system such as the flame controlsystem 260. The wireless communication module can be configured tocommunicate using radio frequency signals and/or using standard wirelesscommunication protocols including WiFi, BLUETOOTH, near-fieldcommunication, or the like. In some embodiments, the flame controlsystem 260 is integrated into the pilot and burner apparatus 200. Forexample, the flame control system 260 can be included within theelectrical enclosure 240. This can provide an apparatus that does notuse external or remote systems to process information from the pilot andburner apparatus 200 and/or to control components on the pilot andburner apparatus 200. In some implementations, this can result in theremoval of the electrical connector 241, further reducing the complexityand difficulty associated with installing and/or removing the pilot andburner apparatus 200.

The pilot and burner apparatus 200 includes a main fuel system 210 thatincludes a main fuel conduit 211, a main fuel inlet 212, a main fueloutlet 218, a pilot conduit connection 214, and a main fuel valve 216.The pilot and burner apparatus 200 includes a pilot fuel system 220 thatincludes a pilot fuel conduit 221, a pilot fuel inlet 222, and a pilotfuel valve 226. The pilot and burner apparatus 200 includes a pilotflame system 230 that includes a pilot flame tube 231, an airdistribution system 232, a pilot outlet connection 236, a flamedetection system 234, and an igniter device 238. The main fuel valve216, the pilot fuel valve 226, the air distribution system 232, theflame detection system 234, and/or the igniter device 238 can beelectrically coupled to the electrical enclosure 240 and/or toelectrical components within the electrical enclosure 240. In someembodiments, the electrical enclosure 240 acts to combine the electricalcables into an output cable that can be coupled to the flame controlsystem 260. In certain implementations, the electrical enclosure 240includes electrical components configured to generate an electricalsignal configured to be communicated over wires or wirelessly to theflame control system 260. The electrical components within theelectrical enclosure 240 can also be configured to receive commands orsignals from the flame control system 260 and to distribute the signalsto the appropriate or targeted components of the pilot and burnerapparatus 200. In some embodiments, the signals can be passed directlyto the components of the pilot and burner apparatus 200 without furtherprocessing in the electrical enclosure 240. In certain embodiments, theelectrical enclosure includes one or more electrical components toprocess signals from the flame control system 260 prior to sendingsignals to the one or more components of the pilot and burner apparatus200.

The flame control system 260 can include a controller, data storage, andone or more modules configured to provide desired or programmedfunctionality to the pilot and burner apparatus 200. The flame controlsystem 260 can be configured to control the igniter device to provide anignition for fuel in the pilot flame tube 231. The flame control system260 can be configured to control the main fuel valve 216 and/or thepilot fuel valve 226 to coordinate when the valves are open and/orclosed or to control how open the valves are. The flame control system260 can be configured to receive signals from the flame detection system234 to verify the presence of a pilot flame. The flame control system260 can be configured to allow an operator to light the pilot flame, toextinguish the pilot flame, to generate a flame by opening the main fuelvalve 216 so that fuel flows out of the main fuel outlet 218 and intothe fuel conduit 284 to be ignited by the pilot flame, and/or toextinguish the flame by closing the main fuel valve 216.

The pilot fuel valve 226 and/or the main fuel valve 216 can include asolenoid that actuates a valve or similar device between an openposition and a closed position. In the open position, fuel is permittedto flow through the respective valve. In the closed position, gas may beinhibited from flowing through the valve. The pilot fuel valve 226and/or the main fuel valve 216 may be configured such that it isnormally closed when power is provided to the pilot and burner system202. The valves 216, 226 may communicate with or be controlled by theflame control system 260. Methods of fuel control include but are notlimited to a closed loop-feedback system to control the valve position.The valve position can be controlled to provide varying levels of fuelflow in the main conduit 211 and/or the pilot conduit 221.

The flame control system 260 and the pilot and burner apparatus 200 canbe configured to effectuate a modification to a live fire or acontrolled live fire. The flame control system 260 can be configured toincrease, decrease, or stop, and combinations thereof, the fuel flow tothe main fuel system 210 and/or the pilot fuel system 220 via the fuelvalves 216, 226 subsequently causing an increase, a decrease, or acomplete shutdown of the controlled, live fire.

In some embodiments, the flame control system 260 can be used with aremote control device, such as a dedicated remote control device, asmartphone, a table, a computer, or the like. The flame control system260 can indicate the pilot and burner apparatus 200 is ready for usewhen the flame control system 260 has established communication with theremote control device and the flame control system 260 has recognizedthat the pilot flame is on (e.g., using the flame detection system 234).The remote control device can include operational indicators thatinclude but are not limited to visual and audio indicators such asmulticolored lights, tones of varying frequency, audio messages, textmessages on the display, audio and text messages to external media, andcombinations thereof.

The pilot and burner apparatus 200 includes connectors configured toconnect fuel lines and electrical lines to the pilot and burnerapparatus 200. For example, the pilot and burner apparatus 200 includesa fuel-in connector 213 configured to couple a fuel line to the mainfuel system 210. The pilot and burner apparatus 200 includes a fuel-outconnector 219 configured to couple the main fuel system 210 to the fuelpipe 284. The pilot flame tube 231 can be configured to have a smallerradius than the main burner pipe 282. In this way, the pilot flame tube231 can be adjusted so that at least a portion of the pilot flame tube231 is positioned within the main burner pipe 282. In this way, thepilot flame tube 231 and the main burner pipe 282 are not securelyfastened or attached to one another, allowing for efficient installationand/or removal of the pilot and burner apparatus 200. As an example ofhow the pilot and burner apparatus 200 may be efficiently removed, itmay only be necessary to remove connections at 213, 219, and 241 as wellas any mechanical connectors. As described herein, the mechanicalconnectors can be configured to be removed without the use of tools.Advantageously, the removal of the pilot and burner apparatus 200 can beaccomplished without tools in a relatively little amount of time.

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate operational phases of the example pilot andburner system 200 illustrated in FIG. 2. With reference to FIG. 3A, in apilot phase the flame control system 260 is configured to control thepilot and burner apparatus 202 to close the main fuel valve 216 toinhibit the flow of fuel out of the main fuel outlet 218. The flamecontrol system 260 is configured to open the pilot fuel valve 226 sothat at least a portion of the flow of fuel in the main fuel conduit 211passes through the pilot fuel conduit 221 and enters the pilot flametube 231 through the pilot outlet connection 214. The flame controlsystem 260 generates a spark within the pilot flame tube 231 with theignition device 238 to ignite fuel in the pilot flame tube 231 togenerate a pilot flame 270. The flame control system 260 can receivemeasurements from the flame detection system 234 and determine whetherthe pilot flame 270 has ignited based on the received measurements. Incertain embodiments, the pilot fuel system 220 includes a pilot fuelregulator (not shown) to regulate the fuel pressure in the pilot fuelsystem 220.

With reference to FIG. 3B, in a burn phase the flame control system 260is configured to control the pilot and burner apparatus 200 to open themain fuel valve 216 so that at least a portion of the flow of fuel fromthe fuel source exits the main fuel conduit 211 through the main fueloutlet 218. The fuel exiting the main fuel outlet 218 can be directed orcoupled to a main burner fuel conduit 284. The fuel in the main burnerconduit 284 can be ignited by the pilot flame 270 in the man burner pipe282 wherein the flame is provided by pilot flame tube 231 coupled to orsituated within the main burner pipe 282. The flame control system 260can be further configured to regulate and/or modulate the amount of fueland/or fuel pressure to control aspects of the flame provided at themain burner pipe 282. The main burner pipe 282 can be directed to atraining structure to provide a controlled fire for firefightingtraining.

Additional Example Embodiments of Pilot and Burner Apparatuses

FIGS. 4A-4E illustrate various views of another example pilot and burnerapparatus 400. FIG. 4F illustrates an exploded view of the pilot andburner apparatus 400. The pilot and burner apparatus 400 is similar tothe pilot and burner apparatus 100 described herein with reference toFIGS. 1A-1D. The pilot and burner apparatus 400 includes a main fuelsystem 410, a pilot fuel system 420, a pilot combustion system 430,electrical components 440, and support structure 450. It should be notedthat the pilot and burner apparatus 400 is illustrated withoutelectrical cables that connect to components of the apparatus 400.However, it is to be understood that these cables are included in theapparatus 400 to convey electrical signals to the appropriatecomponents.

The main fuel system 410 includes a main fuel conduit 411, a main fuelinlet 412, a pilot conduit connection 414, main fuel valves 416 a, 416b, and a main fuel outlet 418. The pilot fuel system 420 includes apilot fuel conduit 421, a pilot fuel inlet 422, a pilot fuel regulator424, a pilot fuel gauge 425, and pilot fuel valves 426. The pilot flamesystem 430 includes a pilot flame tube 431, an air distribution system432, a flame detection system 434, a pilot output connection 436, and anigniter device 438. The air distribution system 432 can be controlledthrough electrical connector 433, for example, configured to receiveelectrical signals. The electrical components 440 include the electricalenclosure and electrical connectors 442. A main electrical connector 441can be configured to electrically couple to a control or main signalcable configured to convey electrical signals to and from the apparatus400. The support structure 450 is configured to provide support to oneor more components of the main fuel system 410, the pilot fuel system420, and/or the pilot flame system 430.

FIG. 4C includes a view of a sensor housing 435 configured to house asensor of the flame detection system 434. The sensor housing 435 canprotrude at least partially into the pilot flame tube 431. The apparatus400 can also include a pilot combustion system 437 configured to supportthe igniter device 438 within the pilot flame tube 431 to ignite fueldelivered by the pilot fuel system 420.

The electrical enclosure 440 can include a hinge 444 to allow theenclosure 440 to be opened to provide access to connectors and/or othercomponents within the enclosure 440. In some embodiments, the electricalenclosure 440 is coupled to the structural components 450 using a hinge452 to allow the electrical enclosure 440 to be moved, providing accessto components within the structural components normally obscured by theelectrical enclosure 440.

FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate various views of another example pilot and burnerapparatus 500 configured to attach to a mounting interface 590. Themounting interface includes a mounting structure 592 having a mainburner pipe 594. The pilot and burner apparatus 500 is similar to thepilot and burner apparatus 100 described herein with reference to FIGS.1A-1D and the pilot and burner apparatus 400 described herein withreference to FIGS. 4A-4F. The pilot and burner apparatus 500 includes amain fuel system 510, a pilot fuel system 520, a pilot combustion system530, electrical components 540, and support structure 550. The pilotfuel system 520 includes a pilot fuel conduit 521, a pilot fuel inlet522, a pilot fuel regulator 524, a pilot fuel gauge 525, and pilot fuelvalves 526. The pilot flame system 530 includes a pilot flame tube 531,an air distribution system 532, a flame detection system 534, a pilotoutput connection 536, and an igniter device 538. The electricalcomponents 540 include the electrical enclosure and electricalconnectors 542. The support structure 550 is configured to providesupport to one or more components of the main fuel system 510, the pilotfuel system 520, and/or the pilot combustion system 530 and to connector attach to the mounting interface 590.

FIG. 5C illustrates a main fuel system 510 of the example pilot andburner apparatus 500 illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5B. The main fuel system510 includes a main fuel conduit 511, a main fuel inlet 512, a pilotconduit connection 514, main fuel valves 516 a, 516 b, and a main fueloutlet 518. The main fuel valves 516 a, 516 b, as with the pilot fuelvalves 526 a, 526 b, are provided in sequence to provide redundancy forsafety purposes. In some embodiments, the pilot and burner apparatus 500includes only one main fuel valve 516 a and/or only one pilot fuel valve526 a. In certain implementations, more fuel valves can be included onthe pilot and burner apparatus 500. The main fuel valves 516 a, 516 bcan be controlled through valve electrical connectors 517 a, 517 b thatare connected to a control system through, for example, the electricalcomponents 540 and/or any other suitable control system.

Example Training Structures Incorporating Pilot and Burner Apparatuses

FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate various views of infrastructure for an examplefire training prop 680 with four pilot and burner apparatuses 600 a-600d configured to provide fire to four regions of the prop 680. In certainimplementations, each pilot and burner apparatus 600 a-600 d can receivefuel from a single fuel source. The fuel source can be configured toregulate the fuel pressure delivered to the pilot and burner apparatuses600 a-600 d. For example, the fuel source conduit 602 can be configuredto deliver fuel from a fuel source to each pilot and burner apparatus600 a-600 d.

The prop 680 can include a structure to support the pilot and burnerapparatuses 600 a-600 d and, for each pilot and burner apparatus 600a-600 d, a main burner pipe 682 a-682 d. The main burner pipes 682 a-682d can each comprise a pilot tube interface and a flame outlet to receivea pilot flame from a respective apparatus and deliver the flame to aparticular region of the prop 680. In addition, fuel conduits 684 a-684d can be configured to deliver a supply of fuel from an outlet of a mainfuel system of the respective apparatus 600 a-600 d to a targeted regionof the burn prop 680. For each pilot and burner apparatus 600 a-600 d, apilot flame in the pilot tube is configured to ignite the fuel at atargeted location in the prop 680 by blowing the pilot flame out of theend of a main burner pipe 682 where it combines with fuel provided fromthe respective fuel conduit 684. By controlling the valves in theapparatus, the flow of fuel can be controlled at the targeted locationin the burn prop 680, thus allowing the plurality of apparatuses 600a-600 d to control the fires at the respective locations in the prop680. The combination of the respective burner pipes 682 a-682 d and fuelconduits 684 a-684 d are configured to provide a flame at differentregions of the training prop 680 to simulate the training structurebeing on fire. Using the training prop 680, a training scenario can beconfigured to provide independently controllable zones to allow forsimulation of spreading fires and the like. For example, fuel pipes 684b-684 d and valves in the associated apparatuses 600 a-600 d can be usedto deliver fuel to shape and/or control the magnitude of the fire inrespective zones of the fire prop 680.

FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric view of a fire training prop 690configured to resemble a car, the fire training prop 690 incorporatingthe infrastructure illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6B. The fire training prop690 can be configured to resemble other structures, such as airplanes,helicopters, dumpsters, houses, kitchens, or the like. The fire can besimulated, using the respective pilot and burner apparatuses 600 a-600 dmounted in a trunk area 692 of the car, to appear in a wheel/brake areaof the car 694, to appear in a passenger area 696 of the car, and/or toappear in an engine compartment 698 of the car. The fire can beconfigured to spread from area to area or the fire can be configured tostart in a plurality of zones at the same time.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example pilot and burner apparatus incorporatedinto a fire training system 800, the example pilot and burner apparatusconfigured to provide fire to a burn prop 804 and to a flashover prop806. The training system 800 can include training structures thatinclude a wall 801, a ceiling (not shown), and a flame outlet 806 (e.g.,a flashover or rollover prop) to direct the flame delivered from themain burner pipe along a ceiling of the training structure. The pilotand burner apparatus can be positioned within a cabinet 802 positionedin another room or another area away from the training structures (e.g.,remotely positioned). In some embodiments, the pilot and burnerapparatus can be at least 5 feet away from the training structures, atleast 10 feet away from the training structures, at least 20 feet away,or at least 30 feet away. The cabinet 802 can include multiplecomponents in addition to the pilot and burner apparatus. For example,the cabinet 802 can include one or more smoke discharge systems 808 a,808 b, compressed air or gas systems, and one or more electricalconnections to control the pilot and burner apparatus and/or othercomponents of the training system 800.

In some embodiments, the training system 800 can be used within one ormore dedicated “burn rooms” for the practice of igniting various props.The training system 800 incorporating one or more pilot and burnerapparatuses can be used to provide controlled flames to a plurality ofstructures and/or separate burn rooms. The pilot and burner apparatusescan be positioned outside of the respective structures and/or burn rooms(e.g., remotely positioned). The structures can include items offurniture and fixtures and equipment, and can be made of fireproofmaterials, such as steel, in the shape of the represented combustibleitem.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example pilot and burner apparatus 900incorporated into a burn prop 902 simulating a kitchen environment. Asillustrated, the pilot and burner apparatus 900 is included within theburn prop 902. However, it is to be understood that the pilot and burnerapparatus 900 can be positioned outside of the burn prop 902.

The pilot and burner apparatus 900 can be configured to receiveelectrical signals through a multi-pin conductor receptacle 941 on theend of an electrical cable, such as from a flame control system that isremote relative to the location of the burn prop 902. The term remote asused here can be used to indicate that the system is not integral withthe pilot and burner apparatus 900 such that communication with thepilot and burner apparatus 900 is accomplished with a cable connected tothe electrical components 940 or through wireless communication with awireless module within the electrical components 940.

The pilot and burner apparatus 900 is similar to the other embodimentsof the pilot and burner apparatuses described herein with reference toFIGS. 1, 4, and 5. The pilot and burner apparatus 900 includes a mainfuel system 910, a pilot fuel system 920, a pilot combustion system 930,electrical components 940, and support structure 950. The main fuelsystem 910 includes a main fuel conduit 911, a main fuel inlet 912, apilot conduit connection 914, main fuel valve 916, and a main fueloutlet 918. The pilot fuel system 920 includes a pilot fuel conduit 921,a pilot fuel inlet 922, a pilot fuel regulator 924, a pilot fuel gauge925, and pilot fuel valves 926. The pilot flame system 930 includes apilot flame tube 931, an air distribution system 932, a flame detectionsystem 934, a pilot output connection 936, and an igniter device 938.The electrical components 940 include the electrical enclosure andelectrical connectors 942. The support structure 950 is configured toprovide support to one or more components of the main fuel system 910,the pilot fuel system 920, and/or the pilot combustion system 930.

The pilot and burner apparatus 900 can be installed in the burn prop 902by mechanically latching the support structure 950 to a complementarymounting structure within the prop 902. The latches used to secure thesupport structure can be configured to be installed and/or removedwithout the use of tools. Installation of the pilot and burner apparatus900 can include attaching a fuel source line 901 to the main fuel inlet912 using a quick connector 913. Installation of the pilot and burnerapparatus 900 can include connecting an electrical line 903 to theelectrical components 940 using connector 941. Installation of the pilotand burner apparatus 900 can include connecting the main fuel outlet 918to a main burner fuel conduit (not shown) using a quick connector (notshown). The main burner pipe (not shown) can be positioned to overlap atleast a portion of the pilot flame tube 931 to complete installation ofthe pilot and burner apparatus 900.

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate installation of an example pilot and burnerapparatus 1000 with features that facilitate installation and removal ofthe apparatus in a training structure. For example, a mounting interface1090 can be configured to allow T-handles 1055 a, 1055 b to pass throughthe mounting interface to attach to corresponding features on the asupport structure 1050 of the apparatus 1000. When the T-handles arefastened to the support structure 1050 of the apparatus 1000, theapparatus 1000 can be configured to be secured to the mounting interface1090.

To install the apparatus 1000, for example, in a burn prop having themounting interface 1090, the apparatus 1000 is positioned so that apilot flame tube 1031 is positioned within or around the main burnerpipe 1094 and so that the main fuel inlet 1012 and main fuel outlet 1018align respectively with passages 1096 a, 1096 b. Once aligned, fasteners1055 a, 1055 b can be secured to the support structure 1050, an inletfuel pipe 1098 a can be connected to a main fuel inlet 1012, and anoutlet pipe 1098 b can be connected to a main fuel outlet 1018.

FIG. 11 illustrates a flow chart of an example method 1100 of removing apilot and burner apparatus from a training structure. The method 1100can be performed without the use of tools. The method 1100 can beaccomplished in less than about 10 minutes, less than about 5 minutes,or less than about 2 minutes. The method 1100 can be used to remove apilot and burn apparatus by removing or disconnecting 3 or fewercomponents, 4 or fewer components, 5 or fewer components, 7 or fewercomponents, or 10 or fewer components.

In block 1105, an electrical connector coupling electrical components ofthe pilot and burner apparatus to electrical components remote from thepilot and burner apparatus is disconnected. The electrical connector canbe a custom-designed connector, such as a 10-pin connector, that can beconnected or disconnected by hand, without the use of tools.

In block 1110, fuel lines to the pilot and burner apparatus aredisconnected. For example, a line from a fuel source can be disconnectedfrom an inlet for a main fuel system of the pilot and burner apparatus.Similarly, a burner pipe fuel conduit can be disconnected from an outletof the main fuel system of the pilot and burner apparatus. Each conduitconnection to the main fuel system can be accomplished using quickconnectors or other connectors that can be attached and/or removedefficiently and/or without the use of tools.

In block 1115, a main burner pipe is decoupled from the pilot and burnerapparatus. In certain implementations, a pilot tube of the pilot andburner apparatus has a diameter that differs from the main burner pipe.Coupling the pilot tube to the main burner pipe can include, in suchembodiments, positioning the pilot tube and the main burner pipe so thata portion of one is inside a portion of the other. For example, thepilot tube can be configured to slide over a portion of the main burnerpipe. In such embodiments, the main burner pipe and the pilot tube arenot attached to one another or physically connected to one another. Insome embodiments, the sizes of the inner and outer diameters of therespective tubes can be such that friction can secure one within theother. In such embodiments, the friction can be sufficiently small sothat a person can decouple the respective tubes without the use of tools(e.g., by hand).

In block 1120, mechanical fasteners attaching a support structure of thepilot and burner apparatus to a mounting structure can be released. Themechanical fasteners can be configured to be removable without the useof tools (e.g., by hand). In some embodiments, there are two mechanicalfasteners. The number of mechanical fasteners can be greater than two.The mechanical fasteners can be, for example and without limitation,T-handles, clamps, clips, latch clamps, wingnuts, hand-tightened screws,hand-tightened nuts and bolts, a combination of these, or the like. Inblock 1125, the pilot and burner apparatus is removed.

Example Fuel and Ignition Systems of a Pilot and Burner Apparatus

FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate different views of the combined main fuelsystem 1210, the pilot fuel system 1220, and the ignition system 1238 ofan example pilot and burner apparatus, such as the apparatuses describedherein with reference to FIGS. 1, 4, and 5. The fuel and ignitionsystems are illustrated here decoupled from the other components of thepilot and burner apparatus to more clearly illustrate the interaction ofthe systems to control and generate flames for firefighting training.

The main fuel system 1210 receives fuel at the main fuel inlet 1212 andat least a portion of the received fuel flows into the pilot fuel system1220 at the pilot conduit connection 1214. The main fuel valves 1216 a,1216 b control the flow of fuel from the main fuel inlet 1212 to themain fuel outlet 1218. Within the pilot fuel system 1220, the pilotvalves 1226 a, 1226 b control the flow of fuel through the pilot fuelsystem 1220 (e.g., from the main fuel system 1210 to the ignition system1238). When the pilot valves 1226 a, 1226 b are open, received fuel canflow from the pilot system 1220 in the pilot conduit 1221 to theignition system 1238, at a pilot fuel outlet 1237. The fuel can beignited at the pilot fuel outlet 1237 by the ignition device 1239. Whenthe main valves 1216 a, 1216 b are open, received fuel can flow withinthe main fuel conduit 1211 from the main fuel inlet 1212 to the mainfuel outlet 1218, for use in a burn prop or other training structure.

Numbered Example Embodiments

The following lists numbered example embodiments to illustrate variouscombinations of components within the scope of the present disclosure.However, the numbered example embodiments are not intended to limit thescope of the disclosure to the configurations in the examples. Thedisclosure extends to other modifications, variations, andconfigurations of components as disclosed herein.

1. An integrated pilot and burner apparatus for use in firefightingtraining, the apparatus comprising:

-   -   a main fuel conduit comprising a main fuel inlet and a main fuel        outlet, said main fuel conduit having a pilot fuel opening in        fluid communication with a pilot fuel conduit;    -   a main fuel valve coupled to the main fuel conduit and        configured to control a flow of fuel in the main fuel conduit        between the main fuel inlet and the main fuel outlet;    -   a pilot flame tube comprising a pilot outlet and an air inlet,        said pilot flame tube having a pilot fuel opening in fluid        communication with said pilot fuel conduit;    -   a pilot flame fan coupled to the pilot flame tube at the air        inlet of the pilot flame tube so that, in use, the pilot flame        fan delivers a flow of air into the pilot flame tube through the        air inlet;    -   said pilot fuel conduit comprising:        -   a pilot fuel inlet fluidly coupled to the pilot fuel opening            of the main fuel conduit so that, in use, at least a portion            of the flow of fuel in the main fuel conduit is directed            into the pilot fuel conduit; and        -   a pilot fuel outlet fluidly coupled to the pilot fuel            opening of the pilot flame tube so that, in use, at least a            portion of a flow of fuel in the pilot fuel conduit is            directed into the pilot flame tube;    -   a pilot fuel valve coupled to the pilot fuel conduit and        positioned between the pilot fuel inlet and the pilot fuel        outlet, the pilot fuel valve configured to control the flow of        fuel in the pilot fuel conduit between the pilot fuel inlet and        the pilot fuel outlet;    -   an ignition component mechanically coupled to the pilot flame        tube so that, in use, the ignition component ignites fuel in the        pilot tube; and    -   a flame detection component mechanically coupled to the pilot        flame tube so that, in use, the flame detection system generates        electronic measurements corresponding to flame conditions within        the pilot flame tube,    -   wherein all of the components of the integrated pilot and burner        apparatus fit within an envelope of 24 inches by 24 inches by 24        inches.

2. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of Embodiment 1 furthercomprising a pilot regulator coupled to the pilot fuel conduit, thepilot regulator configured to regulate a fuel pressure in the pilot fuelconduit.

3. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of any of Embodiments 1-2,wherein the integrated pilot and burner apparatus weighs less than orequal to 50 pounds.

4. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of any of Embodiments 1-3further comprising a secondary main fuel valve positioned between themain fuel valve and the main fuel outlet.

5. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of any of Embodiments 1-4further comprising a secondary pilot fuel valve positioned between thepilot fuel valve and the pilot fuel outlet.

6. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of any of Embodiments 1-5,wherein the ignition component comprises:

-   -   an ignition coil; and    -   a flame igniter,    -   wherein the ignition coil is electrically coupled to the flame        igniter, and    -   wherein the flame igniter is mechanically coupled to the pilot        flame tube so that, in use, the flame igniter receives electric        current from the ignition coil and generates a spark to ignite        fuel in the pilot flame tube.

7. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of any of Embodiments 1-6,wherein the flame detection component comprises an optical sensorconfigured to generate electrical signals corresponding to levels ofelectromagnetic radiation within the pilot flame tube.

8. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of Embodiment 7, whereinthe optical sensor comprises an ultraviolet sensor configured togenerate electrical signals corresponding to levels of ultravioletradiation within the pilot flame tube.

9. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of any of Embodiments 1-8further comprising a support structure configured to couple to one ormore of the pilot flame tube, the main fuel conduit, and the pilot fuelconduit.

10. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of Embodiment 9, whereinthe support structure comprises mounting interface elements configuredto securely mount the pilot and burner apparatus to a training structurewithout the use of tools.

11. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of Embodiment 9 furthercomprising an electrical enclosure coupled to the support structure.

12. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of Embodiment 11, whereinthe ignition component comprises an ignition coil electrically coupledto a flame igniter, the ignition component positioned within theelectrical enclosure.

13. A firefighting training system comprising:

-   -   an integrated pilot and burner apparatus comprising:        -   a support structure;        -   a main fuel conduit supported by the support structure, the            main fuel conduit comprising a main fuel inlet and a main            fuel outlet;        -   a main fuel valve coupled to the main fuel conduit, the main            fuel valve configured to control a flow of fuel in the main            fuel conduit;        -   a pilot flame tube supported by the support structure, the            pilot flame tube comprising an air inlet and a pilot flame            tube outlet;        -   a pilot fuel conduit comprising a pilot fuel inlet fluidly            coupled to an opening of the main fuel conduit and a pilot            fuel outlet fluidly coupled to the pilot flame tube;        -   a pilot fuel valve coupled to the pilot fuel conduit, the            pilot fuel valve configured to control a flow of fuel in the            pilot fuel conduit;        -   an ignition component coupled to the pilot flame tube; and        -   a flame detection component coupled to the pilot flame tube;    -   a fuel source fluidly coupled to the main fuel conduit of the        pilot and burner apparatus to provide a flow of fuel in the main        fuel conduit; and    -   a flame control system electrically coupled to the pilot and        burner apparatus,    -   wherein, in a pilot phase, the flame control system is        configured to control the pilot and burner apparatus to:        -   close the main fuel valve to inhibit the flow of fuel out of            the main fuel outlet;        -   open the pilot fuel valve so that at least a portion of the            flow of fuel in the main fuel conduit passes through the            pilot fuel conduit and enters the pilot tube through the            pilot outlet interface;        -   generate a spark within the pilot tube with the ignition            component to ignite fuel in the pilot tube to generate a            pilot flame;        -   receive measurements from the flame detection component; and        -   determine that the pilot flame has ignited based on the            received measurements; and    -   wherein, in a burn phase, the flame control system is configured        to control the pilot and burner apparatus to open the main fuel        valve so that at least a portion of the flow of fuel from the        fuel source exits the main fuel conduit through the main fuel        outlet.

14. The firefighting training system of Embodiment 13, wherein the fuelsource is configured to deliver at least one of propane, butane, ornatural gas to the integrated pilot and burner apparatus.

15. The firefighting training system of any of Embodiments 13-14 furthercomprising a main burner pipe coupled to the pilot flame tube, the mainburner pipe configured to direct a pilot flame from the integrated pilotand burner apparatus to a targeted location within the firefightingtraining system.

16. The firefighting training system of Embodiment 15, wherein, in theburn phase:

-   -   fuel exiting the main fuel outlet is directed to the targeted        location using a fuel pipe coupled to the main fuel outlet;    -   the pilot flame in the pilot tube is directed to an end of the        main burner pipe at the targeted location using an air        distribution system coupled to the pilot flame tube; and    -   a flame ignites when the fuel from the fuel pipe is ignited by        the pilot flame leaving the main burner pipe.

17. The firefighting training system of any of Embodiments 13-16 furthercomprising a fuel source pressure regulator configured to regulate afuel pressure from the fuel source.

18. The firefighting training system of Embodiment 17, wherein theintegrated pilot and burner apparatus further comprises a pilotregulator coupled to the pilot fuel conduit, the pilot regulatorconfigured to regulate a fuel pressure in the pilot fuel conduit.

19. The firefighting training system of any of Embodiments 13-18,wherein the flame control system is integrated into the integrated pilotand burner apparatus.

20. The firefighting training system of Embodiment 19, wherein theintegrated pilot and burner apparatus further comprises an electricalenclosure coupled to the support structure and the flame control systemis positioned within the electrical enclosure.

21. The firefighting training system of any of Embodiments 13-21,wherein the integrated pilot and burner apparatus further comprises awireless communication module.

22. The firefighting training system of Embodiment 21, wherein the flamecontrol system is configured to wirelessly communicate with theintegrated pilot and burner apparatus through the wireless communicationmodule.

23. An integrated pilot and burner apparatus comprising:

-   -   a support structure;    -   a main fuel conduit coupled to the support structure, the main        fuel conduit comprising a main fuel inlet, a main fuel outlet,        and a pilot conduit connection;    -   a main fuel valve coupled to the main fuel conduit, the main        fuel valve configured to control a flow of fuel in the main fuel        conduit;    -   a pilot flame tube coupled to the support structure, the pilot        tube comprising an air inlet, a pilot outlet connection and a        pilot flame tube outlet;    -   a pilot fuel conduit comprising a pilot fuel inlet fluidly        coupled to the pilot conduit connection of the main fuel conduit        and a pilot fuel outlet fluidly coupled to the pilot outlet        connection of the pilot flame tube;    -   a pilot fuel valve coupled to the pilot fuel conduit, the pilot        fuel valve configured to control a flow of fuel in the pilot        fuel conduit;    -   an ignition component coupled to the pilot flame tube; and    -   a flame detection component coupled to the pilot flame tube.

24. A firefighting training apparatus comprising:

-   -   the pilot and burner apparatus of any of Embodiments 1-12 or 23;    -   a training structure; and    -   a fuel pipe fluidly coupled to the main fuel outlet of the pilot        and burner apparatus;    -   a main burner pipe comprising a pilot flame inlet and a pilot        flame outlet, the main burner pipe coupled to the training        structure,    -   wherein:        -   the main burner pipe is configured to direct a pilot flame            from the pilot flame tube to a targeted location within the            firefighting training apparatus;        -   the fuel pipe is configured to convey fuel to the targeted            location within the firefighting training apparatus;        -   the pilot and burner apparatus is configured to control a            flow of fuel within the fuel pipe; and        -   the main burner pipe and the fuel pipe are configured to            generate a flame at the targeted location in the training            structure to simulate the training structure being on fire.

25. The firefighting training apparatus of Embodiment 24, wherein thetraining structure is shaped like a car.

26. The firefighting training apparatus of any of Embodiments 24-25,wherein the training structure comprises a wall, a ceiling, and a flameoutlet to direct the flame delivered from the main burner pipe along aceiling of the training structure.

27. The firefighting training apparatus of any of Embodiments 24-26,wherein the pilot and burner apparatus is positioned within the trainingstructure.

28. The firefighting training apparatus of any of Embodiments 24-27,wherein the pilot and burner apparatus is positioned outside of thetraining structure.

29. The firefighting training apparatus of Embodiment 28, wherein thepilot and burner apparatus is positioned at least 10 feet from thetraining structure.

30. A firefighting training apparatus having a plurality of burn zones,the apparatus comprising:

-   -   a training structure comprising the plurality of burn zones;    -   a corresponding pilot and burner apparatus for each of the        plurality of burn zones, each of the corresponding pilot and        burner apparatuses according to the pilot and burner apparatus        of any of Embodiments 1-12 or 23; and    -   a corresponding fuel pipe fluidly coupled to a main fuel outlet        of a respective pilot and burner apparatus;    -   a corresponding main burner pipe comprising a pilot flame inlet        and a pilot flame outlet, the pilot flame inlet coupled with a        pilot flame tube of a respective pilot and burner apparatus,    -   wherein, for individual burn zones:        -   the main burner pipe is configured to direct a pilot flame            from the pilot flame tube to the respective burn zone;        -   the fuel pipe is configured to convey fuel to the respective            burn zone;        -   the respective pilot and burner apparatus is configured to            control a flow of fuel within the fuel pipe; and        -   the main burner pipe and the fuel pipe are configured to            generate a flame at the respective burn zone in the training            structure to simulate the burn zone being on fire.

31. A fire training prop comprising non-flammable materials, the propcomprising:

-   -   at least two simulated fire locations;    -   for individual simulated fire locations, a dedicated compact        pilot and burner apparatus positioned remotely from the        simulated fire location,    -   wherein individual compact pilot and burner apparatuses are        configured to include valves to control a flow of fuel to the        simulated fire location as well as to provide a pilot flame to        the simulated fire location,    -   wherein individual compact pilot and burner apparatuses have        physical dimensions that fit within an envelope of about 24        inches by 24 inches by 24 inches and individual compact pilot        and burner apparatuses weigh less than 50 pounds.

32. The prop of Embodiment 31, wherein individual compact pilot andburner apparatuses are interchangeable with one another.

33. The prop of any of Embodiments 31-32, wherein individual compactpilot and burner apparatuses are removable from the fire training prop.

34. The prop of Embodiment 33, wherein removing a pilot and burnerapparatus comprises disengaging a mechanical fastener, disconnecting anelectrical cable, disconnecting a fuel source, and disconnecting a fueloutlet conduit.

35. A compact pilot and burner apparatus comprising:

-   -   a main fuel system configured to control a flow of fuel within        the pilot and burner apparatus;    -   a pilot fuel system fluidly coupled to the main fuel system and        configured to control a flow of fuel within the pilot fuel        system;    -   a pilot flame system fluidly coupled to the pilot fuel system,        the pilot flame system configured to generate a pilot flame        using the flow of fuel within the pilot fuel system;    -   an electrical control system configured to transmit electrical        signals to the main fuel system, the pilot fuel system, and the        pilot flame system; and    -   a support structure configured to directly or indirectly provide        mechanical support for the main fuel system, the pilot fuel        system, the pilot flame system, and the electrical control        system,    -   wherein the compact pilot and burner apparatus fits within a        physical envelope of about 24 inches by 24 inches by 24 inches.

36. The compact pilot and burner apparatus of Embodiment 35, wherein theapparatus weighs at least about 25 pounds and less than or equal toabout 50 pounds.

37. The compact pilot and burner apparatus of any of Embodiments 35-36,wherein the apparatus is configured to be removed from a trainingstructure by disconnecting a single electronic controller plug,disengaging two mechanical fasteners, and disconnecting two gasconduits.

38. The compact pilot and burner apparatus of any of Embodiments 35-37,wherein the apparatus can be installed in and removed from a trainingstructure by one individual.

CONCLUSION

Examples of pilot and burner apparatuses and systems for usefirefighting training have been described with reference to the figures.The representations in the figures have been presented to clearlyillustrate principles described herein, and details regarding componentsof the systems and apparatuses have been provided for ease ofdescription rather than attempting to delineate separate physicalelements. The examples and figures are intended to illustrate and not tolimit the scope of the embodiments described herein. For example, theprinciples herein may be applied to pilot and burner apparatuses used inother emergency services training, including disaster relief training,first response training, emergency medical training, and the like.

Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could,”“might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically statedotherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, isgenerally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, whileother embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/orstates. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended toimply that features, elements and/or states are in any way required forone or more embodiments. As used herein, the terms “comprises,”“comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any othervariation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. Forexample, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a listof elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but mayinclude other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process,method, article, or apparatus. Also, the term “or” is used in itsinclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, forexample, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some,or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as thephrase “at least one of X, Y and Z,” unless specifically statedotherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in generalto convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y or Z. Thus, suchconjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certainembodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y and at leastone of Z each to be present.

As used herein, the term “processor” or “controller” refers broadly toany suitable device, logical block, module, circuit, or combination ofelements for executing instructions. For example, a controller caninclude any conventional general purpose single- or multi-chipmicroprocessor such as a Pentium® processor, a MIPS® processor, a PowerPC® processor, AMD® processor, ARM® processor, or an ALPHA® processor.In addition, the controller can include any conventional special purposemicroprocessor such as a digital signal processor. The variousillustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits described inconnection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented orperformed with a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor(DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a fieldprogrammable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device,discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or anycombination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein.The controller can be implemented as a combination of computing devices,e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality ofmicroprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSPcore, or any other such configuration.

Data storage can refer to electronic circuitry that allows information,typically computer or digital data, to be stored and retrieved. Datastorage can refer to external devices or systems, for example, diskdrives or solid state drives. Data storage can also refer to fastsemiconductor storage (chips), for example, Random Access Memory (RAM)or various forms of Read Only Memory (ROM), which are directly connectedto the communication bus or the controller. Other types of memoryinclude bubble memory and core memory. Data storage can be physicalhardware configured to store information in a non-transitory medium.

It should be appreciated that many variations and modifications may bemade to the embodiments described herein, the elements of which are tobe understood as being among other acceptable examples. All suchmodifications and variations are intended to be included herein withinthe scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.Further, nothing in the foregoing disclosure is intended to imply thatany particular component, characteristic or process step is necessary oressential.

It should also be appreciated that in the above description ofembodiments, various features are sometimes grouped together in a singleembodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose ofstreamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one ormore of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure,however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that anyclaim require more features than are expressly recited in that claim.Moreover, any components, features, or steps illustrated and/ordescribed in a particular embodiment herein can be applied to or usedwith any other embodiment(s). Thus, it is intended that the scope of theinventions herein disclosed should not be limited by the particularembodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fairreading of the claims that follow.

What is claimed is:
 1. An integrated pilot and burner apparatus for usein firefighting training, the apparatus comprising: a main fuel conduitcomprising a main fuel inlet and a main fuel outlet, said main fuelconduit having a pilot fuel opening in fluid communication with a pilotfuel conduit; a main fuel valve coupled to the main fuel conduit andconfigured to control a flow of fuel in the main fuel conduit betweenthe main fuel inlet and the main fuel outlet; a pilot flame tubecomprising a pilot outlet and an air inlet, said pilot flame tube havinga pilot fuel opening in fluid communication with said pilot fuelconduit, wherein the pilot fuel opening is disposed between the mainfuel valve and the main fuel inlet; said pilot fuel conduit comprising:a pilot fuel inlet fluidly coupled to the pilot fuel opening of the mainfuel conduit so that, in use, at least a portion of the flow of fuel inthe main fuel conduit is directed into the pilot fuel conduit; and apilot fuel outlet fluidly coupled to the pilot fuel opening of the pilotflame tube so that, in use, at least a portion of a flow of fuel in thepilot fuel conduit is directed into the pilot flame tube; a pilot fuelvalve coupled to the pilot fuel conduit and positioned between the pilotfuel inlet and the pilot fuel outlet, the pilot fuel valve being movablebetween an open position that permits fuel to flow through the pilotfuel valve and a closed position that prevents fuel to flow through thepilot fuel valve, the pilot fuel valve configured to control the flow offuel in the pilot fuel conduit between the pilot fuel inlet and thepilot fuel outlet.
 2. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of claim1 further comprising a pilot regulator coupled to the pilot fuelconduit, the pilot regulator configured to regulate a fuel pressure inthe pilot fuel conduit.
 3. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the integrated pilot and burner apparatus weighs lessthan or equal to 50 pounds.
 4. The integrated pilot and burner apparatusof claim 1 further comprising a secondary main fuel valve positionedbetween the main fuel valve and the main fuel outlet.
 5. The integratedpilot and burner apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a secondarypilot fuel valve positioned between the pilot fuel valve and the pilotfuel outlet.
 6. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of claim 1,further comprising: an ignition component in communication with thepilot flame tube so that, in use, the ignition component ignites fuel inthe pilot tube, wherein the ignition component comprises: an ignitioncoil; and a flame igniter, wherein the ignition coil is electricallycoupled to the flame igniter, and wherein when the flame igniterreceives electric current from the ignition coil a spark is generated toignite fuel in the pilot flame tube.
 7. The integrated pilot and burnerapparatus of claim 6 further comprising a support structure configuredto couple to one or more of the pilot flame tube, the main fuel conduit,and the pilot fuel conduit.
 8. The integrated pilot and burner apparatusof claim 7 further comprising an electrical enclosure coupled to thesupport structure.
 9. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of claim8, wherein the ignition component comprises an ignition coilelectrically coupled to a flame igniter, the ignition componentpositioned within the electrical enclosure.
 10. The integrated pilot andburner apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a flame detectioncomponent mechanically coupled to the pilot flame tube so that, in use,the flame detection system generates electronic measurementscorresponding to flame conditions within the pilot flame tube, includingan optical sensor configured to generate electrical signalscorresponding to levels of electromagnetic radiation within the pilotflame tube.
 11. The integrated pilot and burner apparatus of claim 10,wherein the optical sensor comprises an ultraviolet sensor configured togenerate electrical signals corresponding to levels of ultravioletradiation within the pilot flame tube.
 12. The integrated pilot andburner apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a flame control systemconfigured to move the pilot fuel valve between the open position andthe closed position.
 13. A fire training prop comprising non-flammablematerials, the prop comprising: at least two simulated fire locations;for individual simulated fire locations, a dedicated compact pilot andburner apparatus positioned remotely from the simulated fire location,wherein individual compact pilot and burner apparatuses are configuredto include valves to control a flow of fuel to the simulated firelocation as well as to provide a pilot flame to the simulated firelocation, wherein at least one of the individual compact pilotcomprises: a main fuel conduit comprising a main fuel inlet and a mainfuel outlet, said main fuel conduit having a pilot fuel opening in fluidcommunication with a pilot fuel conduit; a main fuel valve coupled tothe main fuel conduit and configured to control a flow of fuel in themain fuel conduit between the main fuel inlet and the main fuel outlet,the pilot fuel opening disposed between the main fuel valve and the mainfuel inlet; and a pilot fuel valve coupled to a pilot fuel conduit, thepilot fuel valve positioned between a pilot fuel inlet and a pilot fueloutlet of the pilot fuel conduit, the pilot fuel conduit beingfluidically connected to the pilot fuel opening, the pilot fuel valvebeing movable between an open position that permits fuel to flow throughthe pilot fuel valve and a closed position that prevents fuel to flowthrough the pilot fuel valve, the pilot fuel valve configured to controlthe flow of fuel in the pilot fuel conduit between the pilot fuel inletand the pilot fuel outlet; wherein individual compact pilot and burnerapparatuses can be removed from the fire training prop in less than 10minutes, wherein individual compact pilot and burner apparatuses havephysical dimensions that fit within an envelope of about 24 inches by 24inches by 24 inches and individual compact pilot and burner apparatusesweigh less than 50 pounds.
 14. The prop of claim 13, wherein individualcompact pilot and burner apparatuses are interchangeable with oneanother.
 15. The prop of claim 13, wherein individual compact pilot andburner apparatuses are removable from the fire training prop without theuse of tools.
 16. The prop of claim 15, wherein removing a pilot andburner apparatus comprises disengaging a mechanical fastener,disconnecting an electrical cable, disconnecting a fuel source, anddisconnecting a fuel outlet conduit.
 17. A compact pilot and burnerapparatus comprising: a main fuel system configured to control a flow offuel within the pilot and burner apparatus, the main fuel systemcomprising a main fuel conduit comprising a main fuel inlet and a mainfuel outlet, a main fuel valve coupled to the main fuel conduit andconfigured to control a flow of fuel through the main fuel conduit, saidmain fuel conduit having a pilot fuel opening disposed between the mainfuel valve and the main fuel inlet; a pilot fuel system fluidly coupledto the main fuel system through the pilot fuel opening, the pilot fuelsystem comprising a pilot fuel valve movable between an open positionthat permits fuel to flow through the pilot fuel valve and a closedposition that prevents fuel to flow through the pilot fuel valve, thepilot fuel valve configured to control the flow of fuel in the pilotfuel system; a pilot flame system fluidly coupled to the pilot fuelsystem, the pilot flame system configured to generate a pilot flameusing the flow of fuel within the pilot fuel system; an electricalcontrol system configured to transmit electrical signals to the mainfuel system, the pilot fuel system, and the pilot flame system; and asupport structure configured to directly or indirectly providemechanical support for the main fuel system, the pilot fuel system, thepilot flame system, and the electrical control system, wherein thecompact pilot and burner apparatus fits within a physical envelope ofabout 24 inches by 24 inches by 24 inches.
 18. The compact pilot andburner apparatus of claim 17, wherein the apparatus weighs at leastabout 25 pounds and less than or equal to about 50 pounds.
 19. Thecompact pilot and burner apparatus of claim 17, wherein the apparatus isconfigured to be removed from a training structure by disconnecting asingle electronic controller plug, disengaging two mechanical fasteners,and disconnecting two gas conduits.
 20. The compact pilot and burnerapparatus of claim 17, wherein the apparatus can be installed in andremoved from a training structure by one individual.